San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

15500 San Pasqual Valley RdEscondido, CA 92027
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About San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Overview

San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers an immersive wildlife experience spanning over 1,800 acres in the San Pasqual Valley area. Home to over 3,600 wild and endangered animals from around the world, Safari Park features sprawling African savannas, world-class botanical gardens, and more. Ride the Africa Tram to see the animals up close and in natural habitats.

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Good To Know

  • Experience up-close animal encounters in a safari-style setting by riding the Africa Tram, included with your park admission.
  • In addition to the regular exhibits, the park offers an array of add-on activities such as a zip line and balloon rides.
  • Plan to spend a full day at the park, there is a lot to see and do.
  • Safari Park is about 35 miles northeast of the Zoo and the drive time between the two can be about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
  • Expect to walk, so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Also, San Diego's climate can vary, so dress in layers and bring sunscreen.
  • There will be many great photo ops so a camera is a must, and binoculars are a great way to view the free-ranging animals.
  • Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch animal activity.
  • Stroller and wheelchair rentals available for a nominal fee.
  • The Africa Tram is busiest from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on peak attendance days.

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Insights from Tripster's own team members
Diana K. Tripster User Profile Image

Diana K.

The Balloon Safari ride features an awesome aerial view of the park and the animals. Walking Tiger Trail and seeing the giraffes from the tram is amazing. The 2-Day / 2-Park Pass is the best value for two entries to either the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park.

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Description

Immerse yourself in an active, hands-on safari experience at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where herds of animals roam natural habitats in a 1,800-acre reserve.

With your San Diego Zoo Safari tickets, you can ride the Africa Tram that encircles the free-range enclosure to get up-close views of the animals in their natural habitats.

See lions lounging in the grasslands, antelope and giraffes mingling, storks and crowned cranes on the march, rhinos wallowing in waterholes, and a family herd of African elephants foraging and playing. Experience the excitement of getting up close and personal with rare Sumatran tigers at Tiger Trail. Discover the adventure of conservation in action at this leading-edge wildlife park. A full day of active fun awaits!

NEW in 2026: Denny Sanford Elephant Valley (Opening at Noon on March 5, 2026) — Come face-to-face with the largest land animals on Earth, shifting your perspective as everything suddenly feels bigger. Experience what it's like to coexist with this magnificent species as you share common ground. Walk alongside the herd, connect with them on an entirely new scale, and become part of a movement working to secure their future for generations to come.

Safari Park also offers a variety of exciting add-on activities on-site, such as safari expeditions by tram, caravan truck, electric cart, zip line, and more, all with expert guides and fascinating animal information.

Expect wait times during busy peak periods. No same-day re-entry permitted. Entrance for visitors without a reservation is subject to temporary reduced daily attendance limits and reservation availability.


San Diego Zoo Safari Park Reviews

58 Reviews
Deja Denegal  Tripster User Profile Image
Deja Denegal
Los Angeles , CA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Sunset Safari Tram Ride"
December 2021
Excellent time to go. The animals were all active and in jolly moods. The cool weather and after noon times are the best for an awesome zoo experience. My daughter truly enjoyed and at 2 yrs old being able to identify the animals was a success for me!
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Tip: Go after noon time . Visit the cafeteria for delicious drinks/snacks.

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Gilbert Yi Tripster User Profile Image
Gilbert Yi
CARSON, CA
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Caravan Ride worth the Money"
January 2020
We were so fortunate to be able to go on the Caravan tour. Matt, the Guide, was fantastic. Shared a lot of information and stories.
Feeding the Giraffes and Rhinos is really what made the Tour worth it. That's about the only time you get really close to any animals. Having the Giraffes and Rhinos come right up to the truck was fantastic. Letting us pet the Rhinos was amazing also.
Other than that I cannot say the Safari Park was really worth the price. Without the Caravan Tour I'm sure I wouldn't be writing such a great review.
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Tip: I think the Park is Pricey. Park is small and disappointed

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Denise  Farmer Tripster User Profile Image
Denise Farmer
Kennesaw , GA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Equal to the San Diego Zoo"
December 2019
Loved every moment including the air balloon.
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Tip: Air balloon is not as scary as thought and gives a great view.

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Amber Grider Tripster User Profile Image
Amber Grider
Woodland , CA
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Safari park is amazing"
August 2019
The zoo is as wonderful as ever but the safari park has amazed me once again! Walking through the Australian enclosure with kangaroo and wallaby hoping around right next to you. All of the enclosures at the safari park seem much more natural for the animals. The tram tour is different every time you ride and it’s a wonderful sight.
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Tip: Go to the Australia section early in the day, the animals are active then. Talk with the volunteers, they have a lot of great information.

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yuvana lopez Tripster User Profile Image
yuvana lopez
santa ana, CA
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Fun day"
August 2019
Full of great animals, really feels like your in an African safari.
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Tip: Bring plenty of water, summer days get really hot out there

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Sheree C Cook Tripster User Profile Image
Sheree C Cook
AURORA, CO
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Disturbed"
July 2019
We drove 1100 miles to come visit the zoo. The Safari Park was the best part of the trip aside from staying that a hotel where my child was bitten up by bed bugs.
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Tip: It's a lot of walking up hills. Wear tennis shoes.

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Brian Platt Tripster User Profile Image
Brian Platt
Fayetteville, AR
3 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Excellent Visit!"
March 2019
Really enjoyed the Zoo and Safari Park! Highly recommend it! Start by walking around the left side of the park, then make your way to the Africa Tram.
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Tip: Go as soon as park opens!

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Kenneth Gross Tripster User Profile Image
Kenneth Gross
Corona, CA
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"I just Love"
January 2019
I love giraffes and in 4 clubs. AAP in New York where the famous April the giraffe is.
Knowing I can't visit there I decided to visit Safari Park and went on the safari Caravan. I can't say enough about how wonderful the staff and Experience was. I sent pictures to AAP abour my Experience in California.
You will love the experience at San Diego Park.
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Tip: Take the safari Caravan

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Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Does the San Diego Safari Park have stroller rentals?

Yes. Single strollers are available for $16, and double strollers are available for $20. Rentals are offered near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. You are welcome to bring your own stroller during your visit. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Can you rent a wheelchair or ECV at Safari Park?

Yes. Manual wheelchairs are available for $16, and electric convenience vehicles (ECVs) are available for $60. Rentals are offered near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. You are also welcome to bring your own mobility device if preferred. Rental ECVs cannot be accommodated on the shuttles or the Africa Tram. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Is the San Diego Zoo Safari Park wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The Safari Park features wheelchair-accessible pathways, restrooms, and many safari experiences. An ADA shuttle operates on a continuous loop between Safari Base Camp and Okavango Outpost to assist guests with limited mobility. Those who have difficulty waiting in line for the Africa Tram may request an Easy Access Pass at the Tram Host podium, which provides a return time based on current wait times. An ADA packet with details about accessibility services, habitats, and show access is available at Guest Services.

Are lockers available at San Diego Safari Park?

Yes. At Safari Park, outdoor lockers are available for guest use. At the San Diego Zoo, self-service lockers are located near the Front Street area for small personal items. Lockers are intended for small items and do not replace luggage storage services.

Can luggage or car seats be stored at the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park?

Yes. At the Safari Park, luggage storage is available for $15 for the first five items, plus $15 for each additional item, including car seats. Same-day storage only. At the San Diego Zoo, luggage storage is available for a fee: $10 for small items, $12 for medium items, and $15 for large items. Car seats may also be stored. Storage rates and availability are subject to change.

How much is parking at San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

General parking for automobiles and motorcycles is $20 per vehicle per day. Oversized vehicle parking is $55 per day. Preferred parking starts at $45. Parking is first-come, first-served, and there are no in-and-out privileges. Rates and availability are subject to change.

Can you leave and re-enter San Diego Zoo Safari Park on the same day?

Yes. Same-day re-entry is allowed with a hand stamp obtained before exiting. Keep the original ticket and return through the main entrance turnstiles. Keep your parking receipts to avoid having to pay twice for same-day parking.

What is the best time to see animals at San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

There is no guaranteed best time, as animal activity varies throughout the day. Many animals are more active in the morning, especially during warmer weather. Habitats are designed to mirror natural environments, allowing animals space to rest or move out of view as needed. Daily changes or temporary habitat closures may occur, and a daily listing is available at the main entrance.

Are pets allowed in the park?

No. Pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are not permitted. Due to the presence of rare and endangered wildlife, only trained service animals that meet ADA guidelines are allowed.

Can I bring food into San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Yes. Small, single-serving food items in non-glass containers are permitted. Large coolers, alcohol, glass containers, party trays, and decorations are not allowed.

Are backpacks allowed inside the park?

Yes. Backpacks and small personal bags are permitted during the visit.

What is the smoking policy at Safari Park?

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere inside the zoo or parking areas. Guests who leave the grounds to smoke may return the same day with a hand stamp and valid ticket.

Can my child enter San Diego Zoo Safari Park without an adult?

Children 15 and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult age 18 or older at all times during the visit.

Are face coverings required for tours or safaris?

Some tour stops or indoor locations may require face coverings to help protect wildlife. When required, masks are typically provided at those locations.